Hockey Canada has announced that Dieppe, New Brunswick will host the 2026 Esso Cup. The Esso Cup is Canada’s U-18 national club championship.
“Hosting premier hockey events takes a tremendous effort from everyone in the chosen communities,” said Dean McIntosh, Hockey Canada’s senior vice-president of revenue, fan experience and community impact. “From volunteers, sponsors and the fans, Canadians from coast to coast to coast step up every year to help grow the game of hockey and provide lifelong memories for these athletes.”
The Moncton Rockets will host the 2026 Esso Cup from April 19-25. They are members of the Maritime Major Female Hockey League where the team finished 6th in regular season competition this year, 23 points behind the Eastern Stars, who are Atlantic Canada’s representatives at the 2025 Esso Cup in Llyodminster, Alberta. The Rockets competed in the Esso Cup in 2010, 2014, and 2015.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome the nation’s top U-18 AAA female hockey teams and players to our community for the 2026 Esso Cup,” said Mélanie McGrath, co-chair of the Esso Cup host organizing committee. “This tournament is a celebration of talent, determination, and the bright future of women’s hockey in Canada. We’re honored to be part of this incredible event and can’t wait to create unforgettable memories for the players, families, and fans.”
The Esso Cup annually promotes dozens of players to both the NCAA and U Sports and also includes alumni in the PWHL including Michela Cava, Jade Downie-Landry, and Sophie Shirley.
Defender Audrey Poirier was the Moncton Rockets’ leading scorer this season, and led the Maritime Major Female Hockey League in scoring by a defender.
